Arsenal vs Southampton | 2022/23 PL | Team News, Injuries & Line-up

Let’s take a look at the team news as Arsenal have the chance to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table back to seven points when they face Southampton on Friday night. In their last two games, the Gunners have surrendered two-goal leads, against West Ham and Liverpool, giving Man City an opportunity to gain ground in the title race.

Arsenal, Southampton — Image Obtained via Arsenal

If the North London side can maintain their current level of performance and stay neck-to-neck with Pep Guardiola’s side until the end of the season, it could lead to a thrilling conclusion to the campaign, with the Gunners having a real chance of clinching the Premier League title.

However, Mikel Arteta’s side have some weaknesses and vulnerabilities, particularly in terms of squad depth, which could become a problem if key players get injured. Meanwhile, Southampton’s form this season has been disappointing, with only six wins in the Premier League and no wins in their last six league games.

Injury/Suspension List:

Due to injuries, the Gunners will once again be missing the services of Mohamed Elneny and Takehiro Tomiyasu on Friday. William Saliba is also expected to remain on the sidelines due to a back complaint, and there is no clear timeline for his return. As a result, Rob Holding is likely to continue in central defence.

On a positive note, Oleksandr Zinchenko may return from a muscular problem and replace Kieran Tierney in the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka are expected to support Gabriel Jesus in attack, with no surprises anticipated in midfield.

Southampton will be without Ainsley Maitland-Niles due to his ineligibility against his parent club. Juan Larios, Valentino Livramento, Mislav Orsic, and Mohammed Salisu will also be unavailable due to injuries. Che Adams may return from a calf issue, but he is unlikely to start.

Moussa Djenepo and Romain Perraud are both potential starters, with Theo Walcott supposedly dropping to the bench against his former club. Paul Onuachu may also be introduced in the final third of the field against the North Londoners.

Player To Watch Out For – Gabriel Jesus

Gabriel Jesus has recently scored four goals in three league games and has contributed with five assists in the Premier League. Apart from being a goal-scoring machine, he possesses a wide range of skills that make him a formidable player on the field.

One of his most notable skills is his speed and agility, which enables him to get past defenders easily. The Brazilian has excellent acceleration and top speed, which he uses to make quick runs into the opposition’s box, creating space for himself and his teammates. Additionally, he has a remarkable dribbling ability and can keep the ball close to his feet while running at full speed.

Gabriel Jesus’ last 3 Premier League games:

⚽⚽ vs. Leeds
⚽ vs. Liverpool
⚽ vs. West Ham

Instant impact. 💥 pic.twitter.com/ZOWgCXPDvu

— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) April 16, 2023

Jesus also possesses excellent finishing skills, with a keen eye for the goal and an ability to score with either foot. He also has a powerful shot that he can unleash from different angles and distances. Furthermore, he is an intelligent player who constantly moves off the ball, creating space for himself and his teammates and getting into scoring positions.

Arsenal Form:

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Southampton Form:

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Arsenal Predicted Starting Lineup (4-2-3-1):

Aaron Ramsdale (GK); Ben White (RB), Rob Holding (CB), Gabriel (CB), Oleksandr Zinchenko (LB); Granit Xhaka (CM), Thomas Partey (CM); Bukayo Saka (RW), Martin Odegaard (CAM), Gabriel Martinelli (LW); Gabriel Jesus (ST).

Predicted Score:

Arsenal 4-0 Southampton

Southampton has a strong recent record against Arsenal, having secured a 1-0 victory at the St Mary’s Stadium last season. However, the last time these two teams met in London, the Gunners completely dominated the tie and won 3-0.

For Arsenal, a win against Southampton is absolutely crucial if they hope to stay in the race for the Premier League title. A victory against the Saints will give the Gunners good momentum going into the next game as they will face Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium for a title-decider.

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